Dr Mear’s win follows her first year at the specialist neuroscience Trust, after tackling an increasing demand for services by developing an ambitious five year plan involving major expansion.

She was described by judges as having ‘a huge impact on the organisation and its staff, energising and enthusing colleagues to support an ambitious programme of growth’.

A new ward, two new theatres, a new Clinical Trials Unit are now being developed in the hospital, while plans are underway for a new building to house an expanded Neuro Rehabilitation Unit and the pioneering Pain Management Programme.

Amanda Oates’ award was in recognition of ‘a high level of engagement and an extremely dynamic and diverse programme of health and wellbeing activities’.

Amanda led on the first NHS NW Games last year, involving more than 400 staff and 17 trusts from around the region in an Olympic-style event which is being repeated this year, at Kirkby Sports College.

Her team has increased participation in a full diary of after-work exercise classes; and increased staff engagement in surveys and consultations. Under her leadership the Trust was the first in the North West to achieve the Investors In People Health and Wellbeing Award.

Work by Amanda and her team also led to a Gold Ribbon Mark by the NHS Sport and Physical Activity Challenge; plus a Silver Ribbon Mark for the NHS NW Games.

Dr Mear said: “This is fantastic recognition for all our staff who are working extremely hard to make our plans and projects a reality.

“Good leadership requires good team working and that is exactly what I am privileged to be part of at The Walton Centre. We are working together to deliver an exciting programme of growth which involves providing more services to more people. I am absolutely thrilled that this has been recognised with these awards.”

Amanda Oates said: “I am delighted to win and I would like to pay tribute to the great staff at The Walton Centre who have taken up the health and wellbeing challenge.

“Our staff have a fantastic, positive attitude to their work which is appreciated by all our patients. I think this award shows that The Walton Centre is a great place to work.”